Bastard waterwood (Cassipourea guianensis, Hist. pl. Guiane 529, t. 211. 1775)

Family: Rhizophoraceae

Author: Aubl.

Bibliography: Hist. pl. Guiane 529, t. 211. 1775

Year: 1811

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Cassipourea

Vegetable: False

Observations: NE. Colombia to Trinidad and N. & NE. Brazil

Description

Bastard waterwood, known scientifically as Cassipourea guianensis, is a notable species belonging to the Rhizophoraceae family, which is well-recognized for its diverse array of tropical trees and shrubs. This tree has its roots deeply embedded in the flora of northeastern Colombia extending through to Trinidad, and reaching the northern and northeastern regions of Brazil. Such a wide geographic distribution underscores its adaptability and ecological significance across varying tropical environments.

First documented in 1775, the Bastard waterwood was meticulously described in the “Hist. pl. Guiane” on page 529, including a detailed illustration in table 211. This early botanical literature, authored by Aubl., serves as a foundational reference for understanding the morphology and distribution of this species.

Thriving in moist tropical settings, Cassipourea guianensis contributes importantly to its habitat, often being found in wetlands or near river systems where it plays a role in stabilizing the soil and supporting the local ecosystem. The species typically exhibits a robust growth form with a notable presence in both primary and secondary forests, displaying resilience in various environmental conditions.

As part of the Rhizophoraceae family, Bastard waterwood shares several characteristics with its relatives, including adaptations that enable it to flourish in waterlogged soils. Its sturdy wood and growth patterns have numerous ecological benefits, providing habitat and food for a diversity of wildlife.

In summary, Cassipourea guianensis, or Bastard waterwood, is a significant tropical tree that embodies the biodiversity and ecological complexity of the regions it inhabits. Its historical documentation and broad distribution make it an interesting subject of study for botanists and ecologists alike, offering insights into the rich tapestry of tropical ecosystems.

Common Names

Spa: aceitillo
Eng: bastard waterwood, goatwood
En: Bastard waterwood, Goatwood
Es: Aceitillo

Synonyms

Distribution

• Brazil North (native)
• Brazil Northeast (native)
• Colombia (native)
• French Guiana (native)
• Guyana (native)
• Suriname (native)
• Trinidad-Tobago (native)
• Venezuela (native)

Additional Images

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Leaf

Taken Sep 15, 2022 by Giacomo Sellan (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 11, 2013 by Jean-François Molino (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 15, 2022 by Giacomo Sellan (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 8, 2021 by Giacomo Sellan (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 8, 2021 by Giacomo Sellan (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Mar 7, 2013 by D. Frame (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 7, 2013 by D. Frame (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 7, 2013 by D. Frame (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 7, 2013 by D. Frame (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 7, 2013 by D. Frame (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken Mar 7, 2013 by R. Tournebize (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 7, 2013 by R. Tournebize (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 7, 2013 by Jean-François Molino (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 6, 2013 by R. Tournebize (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 7, 2013 by R. Tournebize (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Dec 4, 2022 by Giacomo Sellan (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Mar 11, 2013 by D. Frame (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 11, 2013 by D. Frame (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 11, 2013 by D. Frame (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3086520)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:719636-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Cassipourea guianensis Aubl.)

Specifications

Growth